Bobby Kimball
Bobby Kimball is an accomplished singer best known for his work with the band Toto, achieving significant success with million-selling albums and Grammy wins. Born on March 29, 1947, in Vinton, Louisiana, Kimball developed an early interest in music, starting to sing at the age of five and later learning piano. His musical influences included Dixieland jazz, Ray Charles, Aretha Franklin, and Otis Redding. The British Invasion, particularly The Beatles and The Who, also left a lasting impact on him.
Initially a medical student in the early 1970s, Kimball performed with groups like the Levee Band in New Orleans. In 1974, he moved to Los Angeles, where he joined SS Fools, a band formed by former members of Three Dog Night. Although this venture was short-lived, it led to a pivotal meeting with Jeff Porcaro and David Paich, who later invited him to join their new band, Toto.
Kimball became Toto's lead singer after Michael McDonald and Kenny Loggins declined due to other commitments. With Toto, Kimball found immediate success, particularly with their Grammy-winning album "Toto IV" in 1982, which featured hits like "Rosanna." His contributions as a composer and singer were integral to the band's success. Despite facing personal challenges, Kimball's career is marked by both his musical triumphs and his journey of redemption.